Our apprentice was so good we got another

A Worcester-based company is a glowing example of the success of the Worcester News 100 in 100 apprenticeship system.

Tacklesport, the sports teaching and coaching software design and production company, was so impressed by the quality of its first young trainee that it took on a second.

When it was contacted in 2011 by TDM Wyre Academy, the ICT apprenticeship training provider from Bewdley, the company from Offerton Lane, Hindlip, welcomed the opportunity to employ an ICT
apprentice.

“In fact we were so impressed with the calibre of the candidates we saw, we immediately decided to take on a second one,” said Tacklesport’s operations and project manager Mike Crisp.

“Experienced in working with both specialist IT companies and companies with an IT department, TDM Wyre Academy was on hand to help recruit the best apprentice candidates and now provides the
ongoing specialist IT training, assessing and support.

Lewis Elliot, of St Peter’s Worcester, was employed as Tacklesport’s first apprentice as web designer and animation developer, shortly followed just two months later by apprentice Steve Hackett, of
Winchcombe Drive, Worcester as a software developer.

Mr Elliott’s experience of the apprenticeship programme has been really positive.

He said: “The apprenticeship is perfect for my interests and it’s opened my eyes to programming.

“It gives you work experience, while getting paid.”

Mr Hackett said: “If you’re considering an apprenticeship – go for it. It could be the best thing you ever do.

“You learn on the job, get qualifications, and learn how to work with your company.”

Tacklesport develops cutting edge technological resources for clients such as England and Wales Cricket Board and the Rugby Football League.

The company has found the apprentice scheme with TDM Wyre Academy to be a great benefit and Mr Crisp said: “Originally, I didn’t realise apprenticeship programmes applied to this type of business,
but now I’m surprised that more employers don’t take on apprentices.

“The scheme has given us the opportunity to mould our apprentices and develop employees with the skills we need.”

Over the past 12 months TDM Wyre Academy has worked with more than 50 employers in Worcestershire and the West Midlands recruiting and delivering ICT and management apprenticeship programmes and is
fully backing the Worcester News campaign to get 100 local firms take on apprentices in 100 days.

Visit the TDM website wyreacademy.com or call 0333 1010040 to find out how it can help you.